organic molecules. Only bacteria and certain other microorganisms are chemoautotrophs. They are much less abundant than photoautotrophs. Some live in soil, while others live deep in the ocean, around volcanic features called hydrothermal vents.
Earth’s climate affects producers; the abundance of photoautotrophs increases as you move from the poles toward the equator due to the warmer weather and more intense sunlight. Scientists are working to understand how global climate change may be affecting plant growth. They are also studying how primary producers might be able to moderate climate change through their ability to absorb carbon dioxide, an important greenhouse gas.
